He chose to have the case heard at district court level instead of the circuit court after Judge Walsh gave him the option.

Dublin District Court heard the incidents happened at Texaco, Spawell, in Dublin 16.

The accused made his way on to the forecourt last July 26 and stole four containers of Daz, a garda said.

Charged

The same vehicle entered the forecourt at 6.10pm on August 10 and again the accused got out and took more of the same items.

He was later charged and the property was not recovered. The total value of the stolen goods was €223. Defence solicitor Lorraine Stephens said McDonnell was looking for time to get the money together to compensate the garage.

"He went out of his way to contact me to compensate the garage," the prosecuting garda said.

"To be fair, he was in a bad state at the time."

Ms Stephens said the accused came before the court as a "different man".

McDonnell had two previous convictions for criminal damage and possession of a falsely altered prescription.

Ms Stephens said mitigation would be presented on the next date.

Judge Walsh granted free legal aid to McDonnell after a statement of his financial means was handed in to the court.